Niche coastal subdivision offers unique take on rural dream

Less than 10 kilometres from the Octagon, what used to be a farm is on the way to becoming one of the South Island’s most spectacular niche coastal subdivisions.

Jeff and Heather McKenzie, previously farming in Heriot, West Otago, purchased the 80-hectare property, off Green Island Bush Road, in 2015. At that point it was neglected, covered in gorse, and had been de-stocked for several years.

However, it was zoned rural/residential, and commanded incredible 360-degree views, taking in the Rock and Pillars, across the Otago Peninsula, through to Te Papanui DOC reserve, right down the south coast, and to beyond Taieri Mouth and The Maungatuas.

After tidying up the property, Jeff and Heather released a first tranche of six sections in 2019. Jeff is proud of the community spirit that has developed among the initial subdivision residents.

“Green Island has its own special vibe, with a rich local history plus several popular cafes and eateries. Considered a safe and peaceful suburb, it is ideal to raise a family, with natural landscapes and beaches nearby, such as Tunnel Beach, Blackhead Beach and Saint Clair. Along with surfing, recreation such as cycling, walking and golf are all close to hand.

“The families who bought and developed the first sections catch up regularly for social events. They are like-minded family-oriented people who have already developed a strong sense of community and friendship, and have jokingly established a ‘section committee,’ telling us that before we sell, they will have to approve any new owners in the next part of the subdivision.

“They tell us that they appreciate the space, whether that’s for running sheep and chickens, accommodating multiple generations, or regenerating natives, all while soaking in all-day sun and within a 5 or 15 minute commute to work and schools in the city,” he says.

Now the subdivision’s second stage is ready to sell, with 11 lots ranging from 1.5 to 2.23 hectares, offered to the market by Craig Bates and Brent Irving of PGG Wrightson Real Estate, Dunedin.

Craig says the combination of rural and urban is exceptional.

“Jeff and Heather are offering a unique take on the dream rural lifestyle, just minutes from Dunedin City and State Highway One, while it is 23 kilometres from the airport, and 10 kilometres from Mosgiel.

“These incredible views speak for themselves, and would be near impossible to match anywhere, let alone in such proximity to the city,” he says.

Founded in 1853, the local school is one of New Zealand’s oldest. The first of three Green Island School sites was within one of the first sections sold. St Peter Chanel School, a small Catholic school, is also located in Green Island, less than three kilometres from the subdivision.

As Jeff and Heather McKenzie continue to shape their vision for this unique coastal subdivision, they are not just selling land; they are fostering a community where families can enjoy the perfect blend of rural tranquility and urban convenience.

With the next stage now available, it’s the perfect time for new owners to join a growing neighbourhood that values both space and connection. For those dreaming of a lifestyle that offers stunning views, proximity to city amenities, and the charm of a close-knit rural community, this is a rare opportunity to make that dream a reality.